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Abstract

Flexible laminates and methods for their preparation are disclosed. The laminates comprise co-extensive layers bonded together at their interfaces by a synthetic resin adhesive. One outer layer comprises a sheet of dimensionally stable (i.e. stretch resistant) synthetic resin film and the other outer layer is woven fabric, scrim, warp-knit fabric or a synthetic resin film. The laminate has at least one layer which is a warp of spaced individual strands of a stretch resistant synthetic polymer (polyamides and especially aromatic polyamides preferred). Where the second outer layer is a fabric the strands in the inner layer warp are oriented parallel to, or at an acute angle to, the warp in said fabric. In one embodiment the flexible laminates have two inner layers each comprised of a warp of individual spaced apart strands of polymer fiber, the strands in one layer being oriented in a direction which is at an acute angle with respect to the direction of orientation of the strands in the other layer. Continuous methods of preparing the various laminates are also described. The flexible laminates find especial utility as cloth from which can be fabricated lightweight sails having high strength and stretch resistance in the direction of orientation of the warp strands as well as sufficient stretch and tear strength to withstand the loads in all other directions in the sail.

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First Claim